The Czech Civil Aviation Authority (ÚCL) recorded a sharp rise in drone infringements last year, logging 572 incidents—up 69 % on 2024. Details released on 25 January 2026 show that the worst hotspots remain Václav Havel Airport and the restricted zone over Prague Castle, both of which attract hobby flyers seeking dramatic aerial footage. Police filed 342 offence reports and issued 31 fines of CZK 10,000 (€400) each; in nearly one-third of cases the operator could not be identified.
Airport officials warn that rogue drones pose an “immediate collision risk” to commercial flights during critical take-off and landing phases. Even brief air-space incursions can force controllers to divert or hold aircraft, creating knock-on delays that ripple through airline schedules. Business travellers relying on tight connections out of Prague may therefore find contingency buffers increasingly advisable until enforcement improves.
The surge comes despite a 2025 rules refresh that expanded no-fly zones and introduced the DroneMap e-registration platform. Operators must now file flight plans in advance, carry liability insurance and keep units within visual line-of-sight. Industry groups say awareness remains patchy—especially among tourists who buy lightweight quadcopters without checking local law.
![Spike in illegal drone flights near Prague Airport prompts calls for tighter air-space policing]()
For international visitors heading to the Czech Republic—whether for business, tourism, or specialised drone work—VisaHQ can streamline the necessary paperwork. Their online service (https://www.visahq.com/czech-republic/) guides applicants through visa requirements and provides timely updates on local regulations, including the tightened UAV rules, helping travellers arrive fully compliant and ready for a hassle-free stay.
Government ministers are weighing additional measures, including geofencing mandates for manufacturers, higher fines and on-the-spot confiscation powers for airport police. A task-force report is due by April and could recommend installing anti-drone jammers on the airport perimeter, a move the carriers’ association supports but privacy advocates oppose.
Multinational companies that use drones for site surveys or promotional filming should review their compliance protocols. Commercial operations near Prague’s urban core now require explicit ÚCL authorisation and proof of pilot competence; breaches jeopardise corporate liability and insurance cover. Mobility managers are likewise advised to brief incoming assignees—particularly younger staff—on the strict limits before they unpack recreational drones in company-provided housing.
Until enforcement catches up, travellers may face sporadic delays or air-space holds. Monitoring airline alerts and allowing wriggle-room in onward itineraries will help minimise disruptions.
Airport officials warn that rogue drones pose an “immediate collision risk” to commercial flights during critical take-off and landing phases. Even brief air-space incursions can force controllers to divert or hold aircraft, creating knock-on delays that ripple through airline schedules. Business travellers relying on tight connections out of Prague may therefore find contingency buffers increasingly advisable until enforcement improves.
The surge comes despite a 2025 rules refresh that expanded no-fly zones and introduced the DroneMap e-registration platform. Operators must now file flight plans in advance, carry liability insurance and keep units within visual line-of-sight. Industry groups say awareness remains patchy—especially among tourists who buy lightweight quadcopters without checking local law.
For international visitors heading to the Czech Republic—whether for business, tourism, or specialised drone work—VisaHQ can streamline the necessary paperwork. Their online service (https://www.visahq.com/czech-republic/) guides applicants through visa requirements and provides timely updates on local regulations, including the tightened UAV rules, helping travellers arrive fully compliant and ready for a hassle-free stay.
Government ministers are weighing additional measures, including geofencing mandates for manufacturers, higher fines and on-the-spot confiscation powers for airport police. A task-force report is due by April and could recommend installing anti-drone jammers on the airport perimeter, a move the carriers’ association supports but privacy advocates oppose.
Multinational companies that use drones for site surveys or promotional filming should review their compliance protocols. Commercial operations near Prague’s urban core now require explicit ÚCL authorisation and proof of pilot competence; breaches jeopardise corporate liability and insurance cover. Mobility managers are likewise advised to brief incoming assignees—particularly younger staff—on the strict limits before they unpack recreational drones in company-provided housing.
Until enforcement catches up, travellers may face sporadic delays or air-space holds. Monitoring airline alerts and allowing wriggle-room in onward itineraries will help minimise disruptions.
